They face many obstacles in casting their votes and becoming involved in political activities in the region.

The Election Commission of Pakistan has made it mandatory on the political parties to ensure 10 per cent of women vote to save the election from being declared invalid.

Gulono, 55, a resident of Haleemzai tehsil, said she would like to vote if separate women polling stations were set up for them.

“There is no restriction on women in our society,” she said, adding many women voted in the last elections in 2013.

Malik Saifullah, a tribal elder, said, “If a man can cast his vote, then why should we prevent our women from casting their votes.” In the coming election, he said, women would vote in Haleemzai, Ekkaghund, Pandiali and Prang Ghar tehsils because local people were well-educated and knew the importance of ballot.

Rozeena Bibi, another woman, said that she was aware about the importance of vote, and if the government provided a peaceful environment, then women would be able to exercise their right to franchise.

She added that tribal customs did not allow some women to vote, but for this election, local tribal and political leaders were on the same page that women should vote.

On DawnNews

Comments (2) Closed

Alba

Jul 15, 2018 09:38am

It is only one day every five years. That is nothing short of poll rigging. Black Americans were kept away from the polls in similar ways by Whites. They could vote if they could meet the requirements. Women can vote in tents, but this is short notice.